With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of J. Kenneth Nelson, who left this world peacefully/surrounded by loved ones, on Sunday, May 18tth at the age of 84.
Born October 11, 1940, “Kenny” lived a life full of kindness, wisdom, and dedication to those he loved. His passion for working on cars at a young age, led to a successful career as a mechanic in the Alton area. He graduated from Alton High School in 1958. If your car was making a noise, call him, make the noise, and he would be able to tell you the problem. Then he would volunteer to help with the repairs. He loved racing, going to car shows, and was able to enjoy these adventures with his friends and family until the last few weeks of his life.
Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh & Bernice Nelson of Fosterburg, where he and his siblings grew up, as well as two brothers who preceded him in death, Charles E., and M. Jerry Nelson. He is survived by a sister, Janet L. (Nelson) Wood of St Charles, Mo, and brother, Norman A Hunt of Bethalto.
Kenny will be deeply missed by his wife of 62 years, Donna L. (Frazier) Nelson who resides in Bunker Hill, and their three children, Richard, (Wisconsin). Steve, (Jerseyville) and Tammy Reed, (East Alton). He also leaves many grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews, that he dearly loved. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Kenny was always a giving man, and upon his death he donated his body to St. Louis University to assist future doctors in the understanding of the human body. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to BCAN (Bladder Cancer Advocate Network) or to assist grandkids, and great grandkids in the purchase of a grave marker honoring Kenny, to be placed by his parents grave. Please make check payable to Rose Lawn Cemetery, and Janet Wood. If there is an excess donated for the marker, the remainder will be donated to BCAN and you will be advised. Mail to: J. Wood, 251 Cedar Forest Ct. Weldon Spring, MO 63304. If you have questions, you may call Jan at her office, 636-284-7764. Kravanya Funeral Home is in charge.
